Jake Adelstein

Investigative journalist Jake Adelstein and powerful Yakuza boss Tadamasa Goto discuss the secrets of the Yakuza. Topics include Adelstein's immersion in Tokyo's criminal underworld, identifying Yakuza members, the intricate structure of Yakuza organizations, and Adelstein's journey to becoming a Zen Buddhist priest while navigating connections with the Yakuza.

Mosaab Baba, a researcher and activist focused on Sudanese politics, dives into the complexities of Sudan's civil war, its historical roots, and the role of foreign powers. He highlights the impact of the 2019 uprising, the humanitarian catastrophe, and the external actors prolonging the conflict. Joining him is Jake Adelstein, an investigative journalist in Japan, who reveals insights into the Liberal Democratic Party's power dynamics, the rise of Sanae Takaichi, and the implications of Japan's remilitarization efforts amid economic concerns.

Jake Adelstein, an American journalist and author of 'Tokyo Vice,' shares his unique insights on Japan's organized crime, particularly the Yakuza. He discusses the shocking ties between the Yakuza and a former Prime Minister's assassination. Adelstein recounts chilling anecdotes from his time reporting on crime, illustrating the violent culture of the Yakuza. He also reflects on his deep love for Japanese culture, including personal experiences with Zen Buddhism and martial arts, enriching the conversation with humor and intensity.